Before I submitted my final draft of My Music Man to my publisher, I teasingly gave each of my four brothers the opportunity to change their first name. To go incognito, although it really wouldn’t be for those who know our family. None of them took me up on the offer and I’m not sure … Continue reading One of the Boys (Almost)
I've frequently referred to the Columbia River Bar Pilots and Columbia River Pilots (COLRIP) in my writing: my blogs, fiction and memoir. It's true too, that I can't think about the work they do without remembering Dad. Yes, Dad was an exuberant cheerleader for these mariners, and the work they do to keep ships moving … Continue reading River and Bar Pilots: Beyond the Romance
From My Music Man, 2017 I love winter along our Willamette Valley rivers; the Willamette in particular. Like many, I worry that this winter's lack of snow and cold leads us further into drought and continued symptoms of climate change, regardless of what a certain uninformed individual claims. And while I too today will make … Continue reading Seeking Moments of Joy: The Serenity of Champoeg in the Winter
Recently I spied a plea on social media from Dan & Louis Oyster Bar requesting supporters to stop on in for a meal. Like a lot of local businesses, they’re being challenged economically by the times, and perhaps, their location. But unlike other Portland restaurants, this one is the most sentimental for my family. After … Continue reading Support Local and Visit Portland’s Iconic Dan & Louis Oyster Bar
There is a let down after the initial excitement of releasing a new book. Perhaps it’s not spending those hours drinking tea at my dining room table, editing, writing, imagining. Or maybe it is recognizing (again) that most people still don't know about my book. And conceding that the bulk of readers never will. Even … Continue reading Navigating Post-Launch Blues
The Imnaha River at Indian Crossing. If Wandering speaks to your spirit of the moment, I offer a few more bits. (See Wandering and the Gift of Time if you missed it.) As experienced hikers know, early June in Oregon‘s high country means lots of snow, raging creeks and rivers, and mosquitoes in the lower … Continue reading Wandering Part 2: Bits and Pieces
As I observe my not quite two-year-old grandchild, it is clear to me he is coordinated and agile. I've been around small children enough to identify a bit of precociousness there. And it's no surprise when I acknowledge the athleticism of his own parents. It got me thinking about kids and sports: the gifts early … Continue reading Navigating Youth Sports: Balancing Competition With Fun
Chloe Aurelia Clarke Willson (1818-1874) Last year my writing group gave me a writing assignment. Interview my 3rd Great Grandmother Chloe Clarke Willson. Naturally, since Chloe died in 1874, this would necessarily be a creative piece unless I suddenly discover divine powers previously unknown to me. My friends probably also suspected it would be a … Continue reading Hello 3rd Great Grandma: an interview
Although I identified as a tomboy growing up, I too loved playing with dolls. Our mom cherished the opportunity to give her only daughter baby dolls. Today I also realize how grateful she was to afford for me what she didn't get as a child. As I got older she sewed outfits for one doll … Continue reading Dolls, kids and compassion
Maybe it's the change of season or my nearing birthday. Or it's my friend who moved into a tiny house, and anticipates deciding whether to hold on or release the stuff collected in her life. Or is it a dear friend's cancer diagnosis or missing my parents? Whatever its determinant, I feel a newer sense … Continue reading Tumbling through time